UD participates in events to mark 2012 Summer Olympic Games

10:16 a.m., June 21, 2012--The University of Delaware is partnering with the Delaware Sports Commission and the U.S. Olympic Committee to celebrate Olympic Day, recognized annually on June 23 in more than 160 countries to commemorate the birth of the modern games in 1896.

This year's event takes on added importance with 2012 London Summer Games opening July 27 and continuing through Aug. 12.

Events Stories

June 5: Blue Hen 5K

University of Delaware graduates planning to attend Alumni Weekend are encouraged to register for the annual Blue Hen 5K walk and run, which will be held Sunday morning, June 5.

June 6-9: Food and culture series

The 20th annual June Lecture Series at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UD in Wilmington will be held June 6-9. Titled 'June a la Carte,' this year's program focuses on great political documents, feminism, world politics and a Newark cuisine sampler.

• June 6-9: Food and culture series
• Through June 30: 'Saving White Clay Creek'
• July 22: WWE Heatwave Tour
• Through Sept. 16: Women of color in academia

One of the main goals of Delaware's Olympic Day -- and a week of activities that surround it -- is to promote fitness and well-being as well as the Olympic ideals of fair play, sportsmanship, perseverance and respect.

Matthew Robinson, professor of sport management at UD and president of the Delaware Sports Commission, said that through Olympic Day -- first proclaimed in the state by Gov. Jack Markell on June 23, 2010 -- UD and its partners have put the Olympic principles to practice.

"This event is a shining example of Delaware’s growing presence in the international sports community and its commitment to teaching local athletes about the physical and social benefits of the Olympic movement," Robinson said.

Markell will sign a proclamation for this year’s event on Friday, June 22, at 3 p.m. in Wilmington.

Events will take place at First State BMX in Milford, the Suburban Swim League in New Castle County, the Monte Ross Basketball Camp at the Siegel Jewish Community Center in Wilmington, the Tina Martin Girls Basketball Camp at UD and the Wilmington Youth Rowing Association in Wilmington, said David Arthur, Delaware Sports Commission executive director.

"The Olympic ideals line up with the goals we’ve set out for the DSC -- highlighting the power of sport as a positive influence that helps kids stay healthy and active," Arthur said. "We’re hoping that this partnership with USOC continues with more events in Delaware in the years to come."